Five Tips for Successful Interviews

By: EFG Hermes Media

Mastering how to successfully navigate the world of job interviews could make the difference between landing your dream job and prolonging your job search journey. With the job market being as competitive as it is, employers are looking to screen as many candidates as possible to make sure they hire the best possible fit for the role. The main purpose of an interview is to show your future employer that you are the right person to fill their vacancy, so don’t be nervous and get ready for your interview by following these five tips:

1. Prepare and Practice:

Preparation is key; research the company, the industry, and the role you’re applying for. Interviewers appreciate it when applicants show they have done their research and are genuinely interested in working for the company, so line up any questions you might have for your interviewer about the industry or your potential job. Another important aspect to preparing is to identify potential points of concern your employer might have about your CV; like past experience, or educational background, and have your answers ready.

Next, you should practice your answers for common interview questions. Regardless of the type of interview or industry you’re applying to, your interviewer will almost always ask about your strengths, weaknesses, salary expectation, and why they should hire you. Identify three to five main selling points and practice articulating them in a clear manner.

2. Make a good first impression

Remember, we don’t get a second chance at first impressions. This is your opportunity to show your best side to the interviewer and make sure that you leave a positive first impression. Dress appropriately, go early, and try to show positive energy and enthusiasm to being interviewed. They have given you their time, so show that you respect and appreciate it.

The interview will likely start with some form of questions about yourself and asking you to introduce yourself to them; make the most of it, start with your positive traits, concentrate on your strengths, and make sure to properly listen to their questions.

3. Sell yourself

If you have been called for an interview it means your resume matches the qualifications your potential employer is looking for, the interview is your chance to convince the interviewer to hire you.

First, make sure you clearly articulate your selling points, it’s your chance to stand out among the other candidates. Second, be positive! Even if your interviewer is asking you a seemingly negative question, try to turn it into a positive trait of yourself. Last but not least, be courteous and polite while also being assertive and confident.

4. End on a positive note:

Leaving the interviewer with a good impression fresh in their mind is just as important as starting off on a good note. Reaffirm your excitement for the position after the interview and why you think you’d be a good fit. Follow up on the interview with a thank you note, sent within 24 hours of your interview. Customize and personalize it based on how your interview went and the topics discussed, you can also use it to cover any points you might have forgotten to mention.

Don’t give up!

Finding the right job can be a long process and you might feel discouraged at times. Try to maintain your enthusiasm, even if you end up not getting the job you wanted, stay positive that the right job will come along, and remember to always believe in yourself and your capabilities.

If you follow the above tips, you’ll come across as more prepared and confident in your job interviews and will land the right job for you.